Meliza's POV
After placing my luggage in the trunk, I turned to my mother and wrapped my arms around her. She held me tightly as if reluctant to let go, her embrace lingering longer than usual. I closed my eyes, breathing in the familiar scent of home—fabric softener and the faint traces of her perfume.
Finally, she loosened her grip, stepping back with a small, bittersweet smile. Without a word, she opened the back passenger door for me.
"Take care," she said softly.
I nodded, swallowing the lump in my throat.
She turned to Ruby's dad, offering a polite smile. "Thank you for picking her up."
"Of course," he replied warmly.
As the car rolled down the narrow driveway, Mom waved until she became a blur in the rearview mirror.
"Are you excited?" Ruby asked eagerly, twisting in her seat to face me. Her grin was wide, her eyes bright with anticipation.
I sighed, leaning back against the headrest. "Not really."
Her smile faltered. "Why? Aren't you excited to see the farm?"
"I am," I admitted. "But you know I don't want to work there again."
Ruby frowned, then scoffed. "Hey, don't worry about them, Meliza. I'm here for you. If they try anything, we'll take them on together."
Her father cleared his throat pointedly, cutting her off with a sideways glance. "Girls, I trust you won't get into any trouble while working at Adriana's farm," he said firmly. "My friend's family runs that place, and I don't want to hear about any fights."
I smiled reassuringly. "Ruby exaggerated the situation. Don't worry, Uncle Ed, we're good girls. We don't like fighting."
He gave us a knowing look. "Good. Because if you do, I won't let you work there again. I put in a word for you—there was a long list of applicants. That farm pays better than anywhere else in the country for part-timers. It's a great opportunity, and I expect you both to make the most of it."
"Yes, sir," Ruby and I said in unison, exchanging amused glances.
As the car sped down the road, I gazed out the window, the weight of unspoken worries pressing against my chest. The farm had too many memories, some of which I wasn't ready to face.
But summer had begun, and there was no turning back now.
"They offer training and various activities so that you won't get bored," he added, and I nodded in agreement.
It was more than just a summer job—it was a training ground, preparing us for the future. We worked in rotation, spending one week on the plantation, the next in the factory, and then moving to the office. The experience exposed us to different aspects of the industry, teaching us valuable skills along the way.
The program was exclusive to students seeking part-time work during the summer. We were required to submit our report cards as proof of enrollment because the company wanted us to focus on our education. If we performed well, we might even secure a position at Adriana's Agricultural Corporation in the capital after graduation—a rare and promising opportunity.
That was why Ruby's father insisted we maintain a good record. A strong reputation here could open doors for us in the future.
After purchasing our tickets, I turned to him with a grateful smile. "Thank you, Uncle Ed, for driving us to the train station."
"You're always welcome, Meliza," he replied warmly.
"Take care, girls!" he said, placing a kiss on Ruby's cheek.
"Thanks, Uncle!" I replied as he gave us a final wave before turning and disappearing into the bustling station.
We followed the flow of travelers inside and found an empty bench in the waiting area. Though it was still early morning, the station was already packed with tourists and commuters, their voices blending into a lively hum.
When the train arrived, we boarded and settled into our seats, facing each other. Ruby rested her head against the window, her eyes growing heavy. Within minutes, she was fast asleep.
I, on the other hand, couldn't close my eyes. I had always been captivated by the view outside the train window.
The landscape unfolded like a living painting—rolling green hills stretched endlessly, their grassy slopes shimmering under the gentle sunlight. Trees stood tall and proud, their leaves swaying rhythmically in the breeze, casting playful shadows on the ground.
As we passed vast farmlands, patches of wildflowers burst the fields with color. Meandering streams reflected the sky's soft hues, glistening like scattered gems. In the distance, misty mountain peaks loomed, their silhouettes blending seamlessly with the horizon.
I leaned against the seat, completely mesmerized. No matter how many times I had taken this journey, the beauty outside never failed to leave me breathless.
The train ride felt like a fleeting moment of tranquility, nature flowing seamlessly past the window—a quiet reminder of its timeless beauty. I wished I were here to enjoy summer with my family, not to work.
As a child, summer meant freedom, play, and no responsibilities. Back then, I never understood how hard it was for my mom to leave us behind every day as she went to work, trusting an elderly neighbor I once thought was my grandma's sister.
Ruby stirred beside me as we neared our stop, stretching with a smile.
"Aren't we there yet?" she asked, peeking outside.
"Almost," I replied.
She beamed. "I've been waiting for this summer for months. I can't believe we're finally back in San Fernando!"
I forced a smile, not wanting to dampen her excitement.
"Why are you so eager to come back? You used to fight with your dad over summer jobs," I said.
She giggled. "Things changed last summer when I realized Vince is the one for me. We never got to know each other, but I'll make sure he notices me this time."
A cold knot tightened in my stomach.
"You like him?" I asked carefully.
"Yes, Iza, so much. And not because his family owns Adriana's farm—he's kind, down-to-earth, and incredibly handsome. I can't wait to see him again!"
Guilt crept over me. My last encounter with Vince had been intense, one of the reasons I didn't want to return. Hearing Ruby's confession made it even more complicated—I couldn't tell her that Vince had confessed his feelings for me.
"Oh, no! Vince is here!" Ruby suddenly squealed after we got off the train.
My body went cold as I followed her gaze. Vince and Jonathan were walking toward us, smiles on their faces.
"Hello, ladies! Welcome back to San Fernando," Vince greeted, his eyes locking onto mine.
"Hi, Vince! Hi, Jonathan! Thanks for picking us up," Ruby said, flashing Vince one of her sweetest smiles.
"It's my pleasure, Ruby," he replied before shifting his full attention back to me.
"May I?" he asked, reaching for my luggage.
I tightened my grip. "No need, Vince. I can carry my own suitcase." I softly mumbled.
But he quickly took it from my grasp. I let go, aware of Ruby's expression—and the sudden tension settling between us.
Ruby was upset but masked it well, chatting with Jonathan as we walked to the car.
After I fastened my seatbelt, Vince glanced at me. "Are you okay?"
I was still surprised he had insisted I sit beside him in the front instead of Jonathan.
"Yeah, just tired from the trip," I murmured, then leaned back and pretended to sleep for the rest of the ride.
As we approached Adriana's farm, the white three-story farmhouse came into view. Its wrap-around porch and manicured landscaping made it look as picturesque as ever. The Bermuda grass stretched flawlessly around it, a testament to the gardeners' dedication.
Vince parked the car and quickly stepped out to open my door. Without a word, he led me to my assigned room.
"Thanks, Vince, but I think this is the wrong quarter," I said, eyes widening as he opened the door.
"I used to share a room with Ruby. Why is she with Jonathan on the other side?"
He smirked. "You got promoted this summer."
I frowned. "Promoted?"
"You'll be doing paperwork instead of fieldwork. No more weeding, fertilizing, or harvesting." He answered.
"Why me?" I asked, suspicious.
Vince sighed. "Come on, Iza. You already know the answer."
I crossed my arms. "I need an explanation, Vince. And just so we're clear—no matter what you do, my answer is still no. I'll never accept you as my boyfriend."
His jaw tightened, pain flickering in his eyes. "You're smart, Meliza. You aced training last year. That's why you were chosen. And for the record, I'd never try to bribe you for your attention."
His voice was firm, but the hurt was unmistakable.
"I'll win your heart by being myself and pursuing you until you say yes," Vince said confidently.
"You're wasting your time," I replied, wishing he'd stop. I just wanted to work in peace.
"Am I?" he asked, stepping closer. His scent was intoxicating, making my cheeks flush.
I couldn't deny he was handsome—smoking hot, even—and my mom adored him. But I didn't have time for romance.
"Yes!" I said, quickly sidestepping into the room.
"It hurts, but I don't give up easily, Meliza," he murmured, his nearness making my face warm.
"Can I see you later?" he asked, finally stepping back.
"Do I start work now?" I deflected.
"No, you and Ruby start tomorrow. Nina will brief you. You're a supervisor now—you'll like it."
"I'll be waiting at the stables at five," he added. "I know you love watching the sunset. Let me take you to your favorite spot."
"I'm not feeling well," I lied, though the idea tempted me. I missed those sunsets.
"I understand. Rest up. Maybe this weekend," he said with a small smile.
I nodded weakly, sighing in relief as he left. I woke to dozens of missed calls and messages from Vince and Ruby. Glancing at the clock, I was shocked—it was past ten. I had overslept and missed dinner, completely unaware of their knocking.
I wasn't hungry, but my stomach had other plans, grumbling loudly. Running a hand through my hair, I got up and made my way to the kitchen, assuming everyone was asleep.
But as I neared, the sound of laughter and hushed voices stopped me in my tracks.
"I'm curious about this girl you keep talking about. Is she really that beautiful?" a deep, unfamiliar voice asked.
For some reason, my heart raced.
"Meliza looks like an angel," Nicole replied with a mocking tone. "But don't be fooled—she plays games with boys."
"Exactly," Crystal chimed in. "She only goes for guys with money. So don't waste your time thinking you have a chance, even if you're ridiculously good-looking."
I clenched my fists as they giggled.
"Yeah," Nicole added smugly. "Honestly, you're the most attractive guy here, even better than those actors on TV. But trust me, you'll never meet Meliza's standards—not that it matters since she's a total loser."
"So, you're saying she's a social climber?" the young man asked, his voice laced with skepticism.
I pressed my back against the wall, my heart pounding. Who was he? And why did it bother me so much that he might believe them?
"Yes!"the girls chorused in unison, their laughter echoing through the kitchen.
I swallowed hard, my fists tightening at my sides. Slowly, I turned away, careful not to make a sound.
I had been starving, but my appetite vanished. Anger simmered beneath my skin, mixing with the sting of their words. It hit me then that I would never have a peaceful summer as long as they were around.
But this time, I wouldn't let them win. I would fight back. I would prove them wrong. I was not a loser.